Reviewed: Lush Rosy Cheeks Mask

As beauty editors, we get bombarded with a ton of new products every day (we know—tough life). Reviewed is a new series where we report on some of the best products we’ve tried. Whether it’s a drugstore lipstick that lasted all day or a hand cream that saved us this winter, you’ll find all of our favorites in this column. Enjoy!

My face mask philosophy is akin to my feeling toward the Kardashians’ new apps: What’s the harm in trying it just once? In the case of Lush’s new Rosy Cheeks Mask ($13), this rule doesn’t apply, simply because I want to slather it on my face again, and again, and again…

I should start off by saying that I am—gasp—a Lush newbie. This mask has officially made me a convert, however, for three main reasons. First, the scent. I know, I know—any good beauty editor knows that scent should not matter when it comes to products and most of the time can have negative consequences (such as irritation). However, the scent of this mask is truly so intoxicating, so delightful, that it becomes one of its main selling points. With none of the cloyingly sweet smell found in other rose products, this light-pink clay mixture has a slightly heady, natural rose scent—that would be the real red rose petals and Turkish rose oil—that makes you want to go around holding the tub up to your nose, inhaling like a huffer in the ’90s (sorry for the visual, but it’s that good).

Second: the ingredients. The mask’s main ingredient is calamine, which has been used since forever to soothe all sorts of skin ailments. It’s a savior for itchy, irritated skin and makes for a perfect soothing topical treatment. Blended with kaolin clay, rose petals, and rose oil, the mask goes on super smooth and—most importantly—doesn’t ever make your face feel tight. I leave it on for about 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water and a face towel. Which brings me to my final point: the way my skin looks afterward. My naturally oily skin is magically smooth and matte, and my pores look less visible, especially around the nose area. The first time after I used it, I couldn’t stop touching my face, which we all know is a big no-no—but, against all reason, I marveled and did it anyway. My skin was baby soft, and smooth as a cherub’s bottom. I don’t know if the effect was quite as strong the second and third time I used the mask, but I definitely saw at least some improvement in oil reduction and clarity each time.

At just $13 a tub, this mask is worth every penny—I’ve used it four times and have barely made a dent in the little tub. My only qualm is its short shelf life. But, as with all Lush products, you can take this as a testament to its fresh ingredients. Now, excuse me while I enjoy this mask while perusing Kylie’s app…

Have you tried any Lush products? Which ones are your favorites? Tell me below!